Say the words “fast food” and immediately greasy, fattening, preservative-filled-food comes to mind. So what do you have to choose from when you’re on the run and can’t make a healthy home cooked meal? The fast food industry seems like the last choice in mind (and for good reason) when it comes to the merits of where not to eat, but think again.
Panera Bread – Probably one of the most health conscious restaurants around, they offer more organic, whole grain, healthy alternatives than any other grab and go chain restaurant in America. From squeezable yogurt, to organic chicken, whole wheat bread, smaller sized portion soups (black bean and garden vegetable) and probably the healthiest grilled cheese sandwich on the planet (organic cheese on whole wheat bread), Panera has painstakingly come alongside those who seek a wellness lifestyle.
Jason’s Deli – Although most deli’s serve forbidden nitrate processed preservative meats, Jason’s Deli attempts to offer some sound choices when it comes to healthier sandwiches. At the top of the leader board is their preference to organic choices: Whole wheat wraps, blue-corn tortilla chips, spinach and field greens are just to name a few. The “Nutty Mixed-Up Salad” would make even a die-hard hamburger eater change their ways. From building-your-own-sandwich to ordering smaller portions ($1/savings in return) you can watch your waist line while feeding your desire.
Chipotle – Finally, a healthy alternative to Taco Bell! Best of all, you can build/create your own Mexican feast (portion control is still important) without worrying about the unhealthiness of a typical Mexican meal. Your choices are many and include low-sodium, organic and anti-biotic/hormone free meats. Best of all, Chipotle restaurants support their local farmer!
Atlanta Bread – Do you like Salmon? How about delicious muffins or a cup of hot soup on a chilly day? If you answered yes, then here’s a great choice in healthy food for your palate. The low calorie/low fat pumpkin muffin packs less than 200 calories per serving while still satisfying your craving for something slightly sweet. The choices beyond that range from whole grain Panini’s to grilled/wild Alaskan Salmon salads seasoned with black beans, corn salsa and pineapple-mango vinaigrette.
McDonalds – As much as I can’t believe anything healthy would come out of America’s oldest fast food stable, it (barely) can. You just have to make the right choice(s) and stay away from the hidden problems. Obviously salads would be the right choice, but avoid any blue or grated cheese (tons of sodium). Go for the “chef’s salad” and order Paul Newman’s low fat Family Recipe Italian dressing. If you need some protein, elect the grilled chicken (although it’s not organic chicken, it’s the lesser of two evils). Stay with the bottled water and order their apple/fruit side dish for desert (no yogurt). Avoid the bottled juices (preservatives) and smoothies (wish they were healthy but they’re not).
My best advice is to always ask for a nutritional guide before you make a nutritional choice. It may seem daunting at first, but when you start taking responsibility for reading the label on the food’s you consume you stop eating and drinking blindly. It may take a while to start differentiating between good and bad choices, but your life is worth it!
Quick Tips for Wellness: Before you start your day, start with a plan to succeed at your wellness.
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